Sahaba Mosque — Attraction in South Sinai

Al Sahaba Mosque: A Symbol of Islamic Heritage and Architecture

Located in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, Al Sahaba Mosque is a stunning example of contemporary Islamic architecture. The mosque's unique design combines traditional and modern elements, making it a popular tourist destination.

History and Significance

Al Sahaba Mosque was opened in 2017, but its construction began in 2011. The mosque's foundation stone was laid on January 10, 2011, and it was finally opened on March 24, 2017. The mosque holds great significance in Islamic history, as it is named after the companions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

Architecture and Design

The mosque's design is a blend of different architectural styles, including Ottoman, Mamluk, and Fatimid. The copper-colored domes are inspired by the mosque of Muhammad Ali in Cairo, while the minaret's "Muqarnas" reflects the Mamluk era. The mosque's pillars are decorated with the names of the Prophet's companions, adding to its historical significance.

Features and Capacity

Al Sahaba Mosque is built on an area of 3,003 square meters and can accommodate over 3,000 worshipers. The main courtyard is 36 meters high and can accommodate 800 worshipers. The mosque also features two minarets, each 76 meters high, as well as a large number of domes and corridors.

Tourism and Cultural Significance

Al Sahaba Mosque is not only a place of worship but also a popular tourist destination. Visitors from around the world flock to the mosque to learn about Islam and admire its stunning architecture. The mosque plays an important role in correcting misconceptions about Islam and promoting cultural understanding.

Construction and Funding

The construction of Al Sahaba Mosque was made possible through donations, free work, and government contributions. The estimated cost of construction is between 35 and 40 million Egyptian pounds. The Engineering Authority of the Armed Forces ensured the completion of the final...

The Al Sahaba Mosque (also spelled Al-Sahabah Mosque) is a prominent mosque located in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt. It is known for its beautiful architecture and spiritual significance, drawing visitors for both worship and tourism. The mosque was constructed in the early 2000s, specifically around 2005, as Sharm El-Sheikh was growing into a popular tourist destination. Its creation aimed to provide a place of worship for the local Muslim community and tourists.

Key Features of Al Sahaba Mosque:-

Architecture:-

The mosque's design reflects a blend of Ottoman and Fatimid architectural styles, with towering minarets, intricate carvings, and domes.

The two minarets rise to about 76 meters, making them an iconic part of the Sharm El-Sheikh skyline.

The mosque's exterior and interior are adorned with elegant patterns, Islamic calligraphy, and detailed stonework.

Location:-

Situated in the Old Market area of Sharm El-Sheikh, the mosque is a central point for tourists exploring the historic parts of the city.

Its surroundings offer shops, restaurants, and local markets, making it a convenient spot for visitors.

Religious and Cultural Importance:-

It serves as a place of worship, with facilities for daily prayers and larger congregations during Friday prayers and Ramadan.

The mosque is also seen as a symbol of unity and peace, representing the religious and cultural heritage of Egypt.

Tourism and Photography:-

While non-Muslim visitors are welcome to admire the mosque from the outside, entry may require adherence to modest dress codes.

The mosque's illuminated exterior during the evening is particularly popular among photographers.

Al Sahaba Mosque has become not only a center for worship but also a significant cultural and architectural landmark, drawing visitors from all...

The Al-Sahaba Mosque is in the main part of the Old Market, and is easily visible from all parts. It's an imposing building, and quite attractive to look at.

We had arrived a little bit early and as a service was still underway, we had wait a short while to enter.

Note; ladies must cover bare legs, shoulders and arms, and they prefer that you cover your head. Cloaks are freely available; they might not be the most fashionable, but they do the job. Men should not be showing their upper arms, and knees should be covered. You will need to remove shoes, and there is a rack to store these safely, but it's OK to keep socks on.

Once inside, you can visit the prayer room, which is not the biggest I've seen, and be given key information about Islam. Generally, women wearing cloaks and headscarf can also walk around this part. However, there was a young woman who argued that she would not wear a cloak as all her limbs were covered. She was very quickly directed to the ladies prayer space, and not allowed to return to the main area.

It's worth noting that most of the structures in Sharm el Sheikh are not that old. Nothing existed before 1980, and everything has been built since. Even those building such as the Mosque which might appear to be much older are really quite new.

I should note that once we were inside, our guide took a copy of the Koran, and spent several minutes explaining key points, which I found very interesting.

If you get the chance, definitely make the effort to visit. I'm sure that you will find it as...